The author is a Forbes contributor. The opinions expressed are those of the writer.

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When I was growing up, the American Dream was alive and well. America had emerged as the global leader following WWII, the ‘50s brought us television, the space race, and suburbia. The ‘60s largely built on this and Americans thrived. People became wealthier, houses grew ever larger, and we became a nation of consumers. The ‘70s brought an economic eclipse but we emerged in the ‘80s and economic growth blossomed. This trend continued until the housing boom collapsed and created the ensuing financial crisis of the past few years. Now, after 200 years of growth and expansion (interrupted briefly every few decades by correction), a debate has emerged about the benefits of capitalism. Capitalism is under fire.

Capitalism, in our unique version of a free market society, has created the strongest, wealthiest country in the world. This imperfect system has created the greatest superpower ever, but one uniquely dedicated to expansion of peace, democracy, and human rights throughout the world. Without the strength and wealth of America, other regions of the world would not be at peace, those peoples would not be living in relative harmony, and democracy would not be flourishing.

People argue that capitalism has made some people wealthy. Yes. And they argue this is bad. Why? Wealth creation has stimulated innovation that has advanced society beyond our dreams. Yes, it has benefitted some more than others, and some have not benefitted at all. Most have benefitted by the ensuing rising tide of economic expansion and have been able to buy their smart phones, laptops, big screen TVs, cars etc. And most importantly, people have a chance in this society to achieve their dreams. No, it is neither a guarantee nor is this kind of achievement easy. But for the hard working, the talented, the innovative, the risk takers, there is the chance to succeed and achieve.

For sure, the American form of capitalism requires a safety net. Our cycle of job creation and destruction can be jarring, and perhaps even unfair at times. And for those reasons we need a system of support that helps people through transition—systems that include family and community as well as state. After all, nobody wants people on the street or hungry. But we also need to have the incentives for people to go to work, to work hard, and to achieve. Our safety net should not be a system that encourages people to stay home and live off the work of others.

So as we debate our American capitalism versus social democracy or other economic forms, let us acknowledge the issues and address them. But let’s understand clearly the benefits and celebrate its accomplishment. Let’s stand down from the attack on capitalism. Instead, let’s reflect on the great nation that has been created by its successes and the positive impact that this nation has had on the world.